This book is the perfect fashion accessory—a sumptuous, exquisitely designed exploration of the most influential fashion icons, ideas, designers, pieces, and trends from throughout history.

What did Vogue’s first cover look like? When did film stars become part of the fashion industry? What led to the development of ready-to-wear clothing? How did the paintings of Mondrian, Dalí and Warhol end up on the runway? These and other questions are answered in this eye-opening look at different aspects of the history of fashion—from Elizabeth I’s “Mask of Youth,” to Lady Gaga’s “meat dress.” Arranged by topic, the lavishly illustrated chapters explore themes such as war and the military; ready-to wear; fashion in film, art, and sports; celebrity; gay and lesbian fashion; globalization; and the internet. Fashion That Changed the World digs into a multitude of social, economic, and cultural factors that changed the course of fashion over the last few hundred years. Filled with colorful images—many of them full-page—and extensive essays that are both informative and engaging, this indispensable reference offers a historical snapshot of what we used to wear and why we choose the clothes that we do today.